Bike tour explores, celebrates sustainable farms

The community is invited to come along for an unforgettable journey through the heart of western Montana's agricultural landscapes with the inaugural Clark Fork River Pedal & Farm Tour. 

This 30-mile bike tour, set to take place Saturday, Aug. 17, offers participants a unique opportunity to explore the region’s diverse farms while enjoying the scenic beauty along the Clark Fork River.

Riders will meander through sunlit forests, travel along the riverbanks, and traverse meadows where agriculture has flourished for generations. The tour features visits to several sustainable farms, each offering a glimpse into local food production and sustainable farming practices. Tour highlights include stops at Cavill Ranch, Cold Spring Ranch, 3H Simmental, Marjerrison Mill, Wild Horse Lavender and Marjerrison Family Farm.

The tour begins and ends at the Sanders County Fairgrounds, where participants will be treated to a locally grown and sourced meal. The feast includes pulled beef or bison sandwiches, roasted green beans, baked beans, cucumber salad, potato salad, corn on the cob, cubed melon, dessert, and a complimentary wine or beer drink token. Live music from Spa City Sound will provide the perfect backdrop to this farm-to-table experience.

Organized by Kaniksu Land Trust, Montana Farmers Union, Montana State University Extension Sanders County, and sponsored by AgWest, Whitefish Credit Union, and Montana Department of Commerce, this inaugural event aims to connect residents and visitors with the lands and food growers that contribute so much to the community.

The cost is $85 and includes ride registration, T-shirt, snacks, water, full lunch, and a drink token. The lunch-only option is $40. 

Registration information can be found at kaniksu.org/happenings. 

Agricultural producers from Sanders County are invited to join as vendors at the fairgrounds during lunch. This event is a wonderful opportunity for producers to showcase their goods and connect with the community. 

For more information or questions, contact Juli Thurston at juli.thurston@montana.edu or 406-827-6934.

    Cold Spring Ranch is among the stops at several of the region's diverse farms that form the basis of a 30-mile bike tour, set to take place Saturday, Aug. 17.